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Extricate: meaning, definitions and examples

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extricate

 

[ΛˆΙ›kstrΙͺˌkeΙͺt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

emergency situation

To extricate means to free someone or something from a constraint or difficulty. It often refers to removing something that is stuck or trapped, but it can also imply freeing someone from a complicated situation. The term can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts, such as extricating oneself from an embarrassing social situation or disentangling an object caught in machinery.

Synonyms

disentangle, extract, free, remove.

Examples of usage

  • The fire department worked quickly to extricate the driver from the wrecked car.
  • She struggled to extricate herself from the complicated emotional situation.
  • We need to extricate the fish caught in the net before they suffocate.
  • He managed to extricate his hand from the tight grip of the vice.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'extricatus', meaning 'to disentangle' or 'to free'.
  • It has roots in the prefix 'ex-', meaning 'out of', and 'tricae', meaning 'obstacles' – literally meaning to get out of obstacles.

Literature

  • In many classic novels, characters must extricate themselves from personal dilemmas, adding depth and conflict to the narrative.
  • George Orwell used the concept in '1984', illustrating how characters strive to extricate themselves from oppressive societal controls.

Psychology

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy often helps individuals extricate negative thoughts, enabling them to overcome mental traps.
  • The emotional process of extricating oneself can lead to catharsis, where people release pent-up feelings and gain clarity.

Pop Culture

  • In action movies, heroes often need to extricate themselves from dangerous situations, showcasing bravery and quick thinking.
  • Reality shows often feature contestants extricating themselves from tricky alliances to survive.

Science

  • In ecology, researchers must extricate endangered species from habitats that threaten their survival.
  • Techniques in physics often describe how to extricate data points from noisy signals.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,773, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.